(JUBA COUNTY) – South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly has voted to summon five senior ministers to explain government efforts in addressing ongoing border disputes between Kajo-Keji County and neighbouring Uganda.
The resolution was passed following heated debate in the Assembly, with lawmakers warning that unresolved disputes could threaten the country’s territorial integrity and escalate into wider tensions if not addressed urgently.
The ministers called to appear before parliament are those responsible for Land, Interior, Defence, Foreign Affairs and National Security. Lawmakers said their input is vital to clarify the official government position and outline steps being taken to resolve the matter peacefully.
The motion was introduced by Member of Parliament Ghada James Killa, who argued that communities in Kajo-Keji face uncertainty due to recurring claims and activities along the border. She stressed that parliament must seek accountability from the executive branch on an issue of national sovereignty.
Legislators highlighted reports of encroachment and disputes affecting farmland and settlements in Kajo-Keji, an area historically vulnerable to border related tensions. Some lawmakers expressed concern that inadequate response from national authorities could leave citizens exposed to insecurity.
The Assembly also noted that South Sudan has previously engaged in bilateral talks with Uganda over demarcation of borders, but progress has remained slow. Lawmakers called for a renewed and coordinated approach involving both governments to ensure that communities are protected and relations remain peaceful.
Parliamentarians further emphasised that safeguarding border areas is critical not only for security but also for the movement of goods, services and people, which directly impacts trade and livelihoods in border communities.
Citizens in Kajo-Keji have repeatedly raised complaints of land loss and limited presence of state security forces in contested areas. Officials are expected to brief parliament on timelines, strategies and possible negotiations underway with Ugandan authorities.
Ministers Summoned Over Kajo-Keji Border Dispute
| Ministry | Reason for Summons |
|---|---|
| Ministry of Land | Clarify demarcation issues and land ownership |
| Ministry of Interior | Explain security deployment in border areas |
| Ministry of Defence | Outline military role in safeguarding sovereignty |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Report on diplomatic engagement with Uganda |
| Ministry of National Security | Provide intelligence on border-related threats |